Linear Map 2025

by Sarah Rockower

Sarah has loved to draw, paint, and make things for as long as she can remember. One of seven children, she grew up in a creative and buzzing household. Homeschooled through most of her childhood, Sarah had a unique introduction to art through her teachers who were painting majors attending a nearby university. Although she intended to major in painting at RISD, Sarah followed an unexpected calling toward textiles. She was drawn to the tactile, timeless nature of the craft which involved spinning yarn, weaving, dyeing, and printing on fabric. Her experience in textile design continues to shape her understanding of how art, craft, and design can intersect. Yet painting has remained a constant. Through the years, her aesthetic evolved, eventually drawing her with full force into her current practice of abstract painting. Departing from the traditional practice of painting on primed canvas, Sarah chose to leave the raw canvas exposed- a decision rooted in her love for textiles and a desire to honor the woven texture as an integral, visible element of the work. Another departure from tradition was utilizing watercolor techniques with acrylic paint. This approach resulted in a more translucent, fluid effect, in contrast to the typically opaque, flatter appearance of acrylics. Through trial and exploration, Sarah eventually discovered a rhythm in her process, culminating in the fluid, abstract compositions showcased in her work. Sarah loves to paint with her daughter, Eloise. In addition to making art and pursuing numerous craft projects, they love long and chatty walks, picnicking, and dancing with hula hoops.